What does Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) do?

Automatic Transmission Fluid (ATF) provides the lubrication to the moving parts, wear and corrosion protection and is there to transfer the mechanical power of the automatic transmission. This is why regular servicing of an automatic transmission is vital to change this fluid (and its filter where fitted) in line with manufacturers recommendation. Failure to do this can result in many issues, such as transmission overheat, solenoid failure, jerky gear changes and even total gearbox failure.

What is an Automatic Transmission Fluid Flush?

A transmission fluid flush is a process in which the fluid in an automatic transmission is flushed out of the transmission (gearbox) and replaced with new Automatic Transmission Fluid (AFT). The flushing process, when done correctly, replaces nearly 100% of the old fluid with new fluid, including fluid in the torque converter and oil cooler lines.

Lexus

Lexus is the luxury division of the Japanese automotive manufacturer Toyota.

The Lexus brand was launched in 1989, is marketed in more than 70 countries worldwide, and has become Japan’s largest-selling make of premium cars.

How popular is Lexus in the United Kingdom?

For such a high-flying global leader, Lexus has a seemingly modest 156k cars on the road in the UK today.

Luxury executive vehicles for the discerning driver

In the UK, the Lexus brand focuses heavily on the NX and RX SUV models, it’s the fastest growing market for family cars after all; but each of the hatchbacks, saloons and coupés in its range come with the same high-level of luxury and sophistication for their £25–£76k price tags.

Lexus design and technology

Lexus was born to present itself as a luxury brand, something Toyota wasn’t in a position to market to their typical customer given their existing brand perception. To achieve a true luxury standard, they have targeted both vehicle development as well as their lavish presentation.

‘Lexus Musts’

Each vehicle has to achieve 500 specific must have standards known as ‘Lexus Musts’, all of which are to attain the high-end presentation and performance of a ‘true’ luxury marque.

Although they might not all be ‘Lexus Musts’ you can expect to find criteria such as leather seat stitching, smart key entry, remote touch control systems, surround sound and reduced cabin noise that utilises acoustic glass, in your Lexus vehicle. And the driving technology is just as impressive: Lexus introduced continuously variable transmissions, regenerative brakes, hybrid and electric fuel options, as well as vehicle stability and integrated dynamic handling management systems.

How often should I have my automatic transmission fluid flushed?

Most manufacturers recommend replacing transmission fluid every 30,000 to 60,000 miles. If you tow anything, or do mostly city driving with more frequent changes of gears, it may be wise to change your ATF even more often.

What happens during an automatic transmission service?

There are many different processes required depending on the manufacturer, some of which may include all the following or just some:

• Mechanics will raise the vehicle and increase the gearbox temperature if required by the procedures.

• The gearbox drain plug will be removed, or a syphon pump inserted down the filler tube.

• If the vehicle has a filter, the sump is likely to be removed so the filter can be accessed.

• The parts will then be cleaned before a new filter is installed and the sump refitted with a new gasket or sealing compound.

• The gearbox will then be refilled with the correct ATF for the gearbox and application in accordance with the manufacturer's procedure.

• In some cases the refilling operation requires diagnostic input as well as manual.

• Once refilled to the correct level and run through its selection routine, the vehicle will be test driven before returning it to the owner.

What are the symptoms of requiring an Automatic Transmission Fluid Flush & replacement?

Usually, there a few signs you can look for:

• Transmission grinding or strange noises

• Problems changing or selecting Gears

• Slipping gears

• Failure to change up or down smoothly

• Jolts or a delay as you change from Park to Drive

• Transmission overheat warnings

• Transmission Control Unit warning lights